Patrick Dorgu Injury Blow for Manchester United Ahead of Fulham Clash
Manchester United have been dealt a significant setback with the news that defender Patrick Dorgu is set for an extended spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury. Manager Michael Carrick confirmed the unfortunate development ahead of United's Premier League fixture against Fulham this Sunday.
Carrick Confirms Weeks-Long Absence for Dorgu
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Carrick revealed that Dorgu, who was forced off after scoring in the second half of United's 3-2 victory over Arsenal last Sunday, will be out for several weeks. Initial reports this week suggested the 21-year-old could be absent for around 10 weeks, which would likely see him miss at least eight crucial games for the Red Devils.
'Pat, unfortunately, he's going to be out for a period of time,' Carrick stated. 'We're still working through how long that's going to be. We'll have to see, [it is] disappointing, he's had such a big couple of weeks, Pat.'
The manager elaborated on the initial uncertainty surrounding the injury, noting: 'We weren't sure whether it was a little bit of cramp or whether it was something a little bit more serious, and at the moment it looks a little bit more on the serious note. So, it'll be a few weeks for that. How many weeks? We'll have to wait and see.'
Carrick expressed sympathy for the young player, adding: 'That's disappointing for all of us really, and for Pat, he's in such a good place, but unfortunately it is part of football and it's something we've got to work through and get him back as soon as we can.'
Games Dorgu Is Likely to Miss for Manchester United
If the estimated 10-week absence proves accurate, Patrick Dorgu is expected to be unavailable for a string of important Premier League matches. The fixtures he is set to miss include:
- Fulham (H), Sunday 1 February
- Tottenham (H), Saturday 7 February
- West Ham (A), Tuesday 10 February
- Everton (A), Monday 23 February
- Crystal Palace (H), Sunday 1 March
- Newcastle United (A), Wednesday 4 March
- Aston Villa (H), Saturday 14 March
- Bournemouth (A), Friday 20 March
This absence represents a notable challenge for United's defensive options during a busy period of the season.
Positive News on Zirkzee Return and De Ligt Update
In more encouraging news for United fans, Carrick confirmed that striker Joshua Zirkzee has returned to training this week ahead of the Fulham game. 'Yeah, Josh is back training this week, which is good news,' Carrick said. 'Obviously, first time... so he's been out for a short amount of time, but first kind of training with us since we've been here, so that's great to have Josh back.'
The manager provided further detail on Zirkzee's progress: 'Josh has just been trying to work and get fit around the group. He trained yesterday for the first time and that's as far as it goes with me and Josh. I'm looking forward to working with him and nothing more needs to be said.'
However, not all injury news was positive, as Carrick also confirmed that defender Matthijs de Ligt has not yet returned to full training due to an ongoing back issue. This leaves United with defensive concerns as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures.
The loss of Dorgu, coupled with De Ligt's continued absence, will test United's squad depth in defence. Carrick and his coaching staff will need to navigate these challenges carefully to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League.
